Boateng, who retired from professional football in September after a short stint with Austrian side LASK, had recently been in discussions with Bayern Munich regarding a short-term coaching internship. ..Continue Reading
The 37-year-old reportedly spoke with Bayern head coach Vincent Kompany about the opportunity, but following strong opposition from supporters — including a petition against the move — Boateng decided not to proceed.
“Jerome feels very connected to FC Bayern and does not want FC Bayern to suffer damage due to the controversial discussion surrounding his person,” read a statement from Bayern in October.
An online petition titled “Setting borders against misogynistic violence: Jerome Boateng should not be allowed back to Bayern Munich” had gathered several thousand signatures before Bayern issued their statement.
One month later, the former defender was seen at Barcelona’s training ground alongside Robert Lewandowski and Hansi Flick, both of whom he previously worked with at Bayern Munich.
Barcelona’s official social media accounts shared a 16-second video of Boateng reuniting with Lewandowski and Flick, captioned: “Welcome to the Ciutat Esportiva, Jérôme Boateng!”
According to Spanish outlet SPORT, Boateng will be using Barcelona’s facilities for a few days to maintain his fitness.
At the same time, the club is facing criticism from fans over their decision to host Boateng, who has drawn attention in recent years for matters off the pitch.
In September 2021, he was found guilty of assaulting a former partner, identified as Sherin S.
The ex-Manchester City and Lyon player, who was accused of injuring Sherin S during a 2018 vacation and denied the allegations, was initially fined €1.8 million.
After a retrial and extended legal proceedings, he was convicted again in July 2024 of causing bodily harm and received a warning along with a €200,000 fine, according to Reuters.
The court also ordered Boateng to donate €100,000 to charitable organisations.
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